As was evident during his recent visit to St. Peter's College, Barack Obama, more than any other Presidential candidate, has invited our youth to take an active part in our country's future. He realizes that our young citizens have the ability, the intelligence, the energy, and the desire to serve our country, but that the opportunities for real service may not be available to most. He has let them know that they are valued, and needed.
Mr. Obama has proposed the expansion of AmeriCorp, our nationwide service program, into specific divisions addressing education, health, clean energy, assistance to veterans and homeland security. This would provide the opportunity for a young citizen to be of help in an area in which he best suited to act. Expansion of the Peace Corps would give to Americans an opportunity to be of service abroad. Tax credits for community service would make it possible for young adults to continue their service while attending college.
What a refreshing change! After all, for the last eight years, it seems the only 'service' opportunity openly offered to our youth was in the military!
Laura Foord
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